Date
12-4-2025
Department
School of Communication and the Arts
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy in Communication (PhD)
Chair
Robert Mott
Keywords
Politeness Theory, Generation Z, TikTok, Rudeness
Disciplines
Communication
Recommended Citation
Jones, Russell D., "The Complexities of Impoliteness in Digital Workspaces: A Politeness Theory Analysis of Gen Z Workplace Communication" (2025). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 7760.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/7760
Abstract
The purpose of this qualitative study was to investigate how Generation Z’s on TikTok influences their communication patterns in professional and social contexts, with specific attention to the role of politeness and impoliteness. Addressing a gap in communication scholarship, digital-native practices reshape established theories of interaction and affect workplace expectations were examined. Using a phenomenological design, data was collected from 30 semi-structured interviews and 300 open-ended survey responses to capture a broad and deep account of Gen Z communication. Thematic analysis and triangulation revealed three dominant patterns: (a) the redefinition of professionalism through informal and brief exchanges, (b) the habitual use of short-form communication that limits sustained dialogue, and (c) the role of TikTok as a cultural infrastructure in which sarcasm, roasting, and emojis signal identity but diverge from traditional politeness standards. Survey responses and interviews consistently showed that authenticity and directness are valued over conventionally polite behaviors, creating tension in workplace settings in which professionalism is measured through more formal norms. Findings suggest that impoliteness on TikTok can function as social capital, challenging assumptions embedded in classical politeness theory. Recommendations include that employers and human resource professionals implement communication coaching and training strategies that help Gen Z employees translate their digital interaction styles into professional contexts without losing their sense of authenticity. Future research should extend the analysis of digital politeness to intergenerational and cross-cultural environments to assess how evolving norms may reshape communication theory and workplace practices.
